MARGAO
United Club Verna defeated Sao Jose de Areal SC 5-1 to emerge champions of the 45th Gold Silver Trophy inter-village football tournament organised by Navelim Sporting Club at Rosary Church ground, Navelim, on Saturday.
Clive Fernandes put Verna ahead in the 22nd minute after earlier attempts by Fernandes and Jesloy Moniz missed the target.
United Club Verna dominated the second half, with Sheldon Pereira doubling the lead in the 46th minute. Desmon Pereira made it 3-0 four minutes later before adding another to put Verna 4-0 ahead. Meldon Moniz completed the scoring for Verna, while Areal pulled one back to make it 5-1.
Desmon Pereira was named player of the final. Other individual awards went to Ravil Fernandes (best goalkeeper), Sam Moura (best midfielder), Josley Gomes (best forward), Clive Fernandes (first scorer of the final), Dickson Rogtao (best left-footer) and Maevon Fonseca (promising player). CRC Chinchinim were adjudged the best disciplined team.
Former chief minister Luizinho Faleiro was the chief guest and presented the prizes. Navelim MLA Ulhas Tuenkar, GENO Pharmaceuticals chairman Dilip R Salgaocar, parish priest Rev Fr Gabriel Coutinho and other dignitaries were present.
